METRO DETROIT — For those who seek to build bonds with animals, getting a pet is one way to go. But not everyone has the time or space to commit to a furry friend for years.

WARREN/STERLING HEIGHTS — As a licensed funeral director, Jeff Mandziuk’s intent is to always treat the departed with the utmost respect and dignity.

METRO DETROIT — A look at five things to do during the weekend of Oct. 18-20

METRO DETROIT — While vaping was originally marketed to replace cigarettes and some teens say it helps them with stress, health officials say the opposite is true.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — On Oct. 4, Knights of Columbus Council No. 13983, from St. Kieran Catholic Church, presented the Shelby Township Fire Department with three dozen “Casey” teddy bears. The teddy bears are to be given to traumatized children at fire and auto accidents scenes.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Jodi Salisbury, a current Shelby Township resident, said that every year her family, the Hamden family, hosts a family reunion at River Bends Park, and this year they celebrated their 100th reunion on Sept. 7.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Neighbors United is raising funds for firefighters battling cancer with its Walk for the Red Charity Craft Show at the Disabled American Veterans Hall at 47326 Dequindre Road in Shelby Township next month.

UTICA — A brand-new interactive gaming and activities center called Activate has opened in Utica.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Township Lions Club is planning to raise funds and collect items during a special event at the Palazzo Grande in Shelby Township this month in an effort to help hurricane victims.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/MACOMB TOWNSHIP — For the third straight season, the top spot in the Macomb Area Conference Red was decided in a matchup between Utica Eisenhower and Macomb Dakota.

METRO DETROIT — The Facebook page “For the Love of Louie” helps find lost pets and returns them to their families in happy and sometimes sad reunions.

METRO DETROIT — A look at five things to do during the weekend of Oct. 11-13

METRO DETROIT — Fall gardening can look daunting, but remembering a few simple steps could make it easier.

METRO DETROIT — The rising cost of college, combined with growing demand for skilled workers, is driving more students to enroll in career and technical education programs, known as CTE programs.

MOUNT CLEMENS — When Macomb County voters go to the polls in November, they will decide on more than just who holds various seats in the government. Two proposals will give voters the option to potentially reshape the very foundations of county government.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — In 2022, domestic violence took the lives of more than 100 Michigan residents. Domestic violence crimes account for almost 40 percent of police calls, and 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by an intimate partner.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A Utica Community Schools teacher has been recognized for her extensive efforts in inspiring her students and fostering enthusiasm for the future that lies ahead following their graduation.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Utica High School Band Boosters is readying for its 39th annual used instrument sale Nov. 9 and welcomes all who may be in need of an instrument or would like to sell one.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP/UTICA — The Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township is starting off the spooky month with a pumpkin painting party from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 13. This free event is open to the community and will include yummy treats, mini pumpkins and painting supplies.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — The Shelby Township Fire Department will be holding an open house on Saturday for the public to come visit and see what firefighters’ jobs are all about day to day.